LETTER: Taunton State Hospital closure just not right

I am writing regarding the recent coverage concerning the proposed closure of Taunton State Hospital. I have been working at the hospital for 28 years. Contrary to claims being made, this facility is state of the art. Millions of dollars have been spent refurbishing it. By closing this facility we will...

I have been working at the hospital for 28 years. Contrary to claims being made, this facility is state of the art. Millions of dollars have been spent refurbishing it. By closing this facility we will lose needed inservice beds throughout the state. Our clients receive top quality care. The staff is dedicated and cares deeply about the individuals there.

I have personally been involved in the community setting, also, as my mother ran a home for individuals with mental illness. I grew up in this home and we treated these individuals as members of our family. However, when the needs of an individual could not be met, we were able to rely on the in-services provided at Taunton State Hospital.

This closure would have drastic consequences on emergency departments throughout the commonwealth. At this time there are emergency rooms with individuals who need in-service care and cannot receive that care because of a lack of in-service beds.

This closure would force individuals to move to the central part of the state, far away from family members. This is a burden for these families that deal with caring for loved ones.

Each of us needs to think of what we would do if we had this happen to us. This is not about the bean counters in the administration. It is about what is right. We need to send a message to the administration that human beings come first. This is a moral and ethical issue we need to address.